Plovers or Masked Lapwings are fairly large birds. They have long reddish legs and large yellow facial wattles. They inhabit virtually the whole of Australia and are commonly found on the shores of swamps and lakes. They commonly inhabit large grassy areas, particularly those areas cleared for pasture or parkland. Plovers usually lay their eggs after local rains. They lay up to four eggs on the ground in a small depression in open areas so they can see their predators. Eggs hatch in 28 days. Plovers are very protective of their nests and chicks. This is particularly the case after the chicks have hatched. Adults will dive on intruders, use loud noises and swooping or act as though they have a broken wing in an attempt to lure the intruder away from the nest. This behaviour is mostly bluff and actual contact attacks are rare. Regardless, it is this fearlessly protective nature that brings them into conflict with people.